A serene Ash Wednesday service at St. Peter the Apostle Church in San Jose del Monte, Bulacan, turned tragic when the mezzanine floor collapsed mid-mass, leading to the death of one parishioner and injuring 52 others. The unfortunate event, primarily attributed to termite damage weakening the wooden structure, has left the community in shock and mourning.
Parish priest Fr. Romulo Perez expressed his disbelief and immediate response to the incident, emphasizing the urgency of addressing the structural integrity of the church. “We were caught unaware. We will remove all these. I said we should open it all,” he stated, indicating a thorough inspection and renovation plan to prevent future tragedies.
The collapse occurred as congregants lined up for the traditional marking of ashes, causing panic and chaos. Gina Ayson, head of the City Disaster Risk Reduction Management Office (CDRRMO), confirmed the wooden second floor’s failure under the unexpected stress.
In response to the disaster, the local government of San Jose del Monte City has temporarily closed the church, pending a detailed assessment by city engineering and building officials. Mayor Arthur Robles has called for a comprehensive examination of the church’s structure and other ancient churches in the area to ensure their safety for mass and other activities.
The city has committed to covering the medical expenses of the victims, demonstrating solidarity and support during this difficult time. The deceased, identified as 80-year-old Luneta Morales, and the injured, some of whom experienced minor injuries like bruises and shoulder pain, remind the community of the fragility of life and the importance of vigilance in maintaining public safety.
Eyewitness accounts, like that of Geen Cruz who was on the second floor at the time of the collapse, recount the harrowing moments and the quick actions of those around her, highlighting the human spirit’s resilience in the face of adversity.
This incident has spurred a wider call to action for the inspection and reinforcement of older structures, ensuring such a tragedy does not occur again in Bulacan or elsewhere.